Jefferson Joe Begay, 36, died unexpectedly late Thursday night, Aug. 25, 2011, at Trillium Hospital in Mesa following a short illness. A graveside service was held Aug. 31 at the Jeddito Community Cemetery.

Jefferson, who was affectionately known as Jeff, was born on April 6, 1975, in Keams Canyon to Allen Joe and Peggy (James) Begay. Jeff was a loving son and was devoted to his parents.

When he was able, Jeff was gainfully employed as a skilled roofer for many years. He also was a singer in a pow-wow group and following his disability, he enjoyed doing beadwork.

He always was there for his family to help them in any way that he could, and found special friends amongst his own nieces and nephews, as they loved him so much.

He had a terrific sense of humor and had a knack for making everyone laugh when they were feeling down. His friends called him “Big Chief.”

Survivors include his brothers, Quincy Joe Begay, Cotton Lee Nelson and Vernon K. Nelson Jr., all of Jeddito; his sisters, Jovita Cromwell and Shirlinda Begay, both of Jeddito; his parents: Allen Joe Begay and Peggy James Begay, both of Jeddito; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and all of his in-laws. He loved them all so much and they, in return, loved him back.

Owens Livingston Mortuary-White Mountain Chapel of Show Low was in charge of the arrangements.